February 9th, 1940 – January 13, 2009.
Dennis Bashford, 68, was a longtime resident of Fillmore. Dennis went to be with the Lord on January 14, 2009, after a lengthy struggle with CREST Disease. He was born in Webster City, Iowa. He moved to California in 1948, along with his parents William and Arlene Bashford and his brother Jack. They lived in Montebello and later moved to El Monte where he graduated from El Monte High School. He attended Pasadena City College and Los Angeles Technical Trade School majoring in printing. He worked in the printing industry for 13 years.
Dennis Bashford met Elaine Murry through mutual friends while still in high school and married in 1959. They had two children, Denise and Donna. The family enjoyed fishing, waterskiing, sightseeing, camping. They were always involved with family and friends both at home and on outings. The girls were involved with FFA and Girl Scouts, which Dennis enjoyed helping out. For many years he and his wife, Elaine, traveled throughout the world. Many trips were taken with their children, grandchildren, and friends while also making new friends along the way; many of whom have kept contact through the years. He was an avid fisherman and shared his passion with his grandchildren and many others. He was also a Member of the Fillmore Lions club, including past President.
Wanting to move to the Ventura County area, he purchased the Fillmore Western Auto Store in 1972 and was the proprietor until 1976 when he sold the business. An insurance representative mentioned to him that he would be good at selling insurance because of his friendly disposition. After consideration, he thought of giving it a try. He was a leading producer of casualty insurance for years. In 1980, he was offered a position at 3M in customer relations. He accepted and traveled on the West Coast for years until transferring to the Plant in Camarillo. 3M later became Immation and continued the manufacturing aspect of 3M. Dennis stayed on with Immiation. He retired in 2000. Through the years, Dennis was also instrumental in restoring houses which were sold to low income families. He took great pride in doing this.
Dennis was a member of the Faith Community Church. He shared in the enthusiasm of preparing meals for the Mariners dinners and home visits of people during difficult times. He transported the Youth Group during their trip to Hume Lake, which was very enjoyable for him. He appreciated the friendship of the members and felt they were very special and giving people.
The family wishes to thank all who have responded so warmly. A special thanks to all at Barlow Respiratory Hospital in Los Angeles for their excellent and compassionate care of Dennis. Their devotion and outstanding skill enriched Dennis’ life during his final weeks. Dennis was able to thank the doctors and nurses for the care and comfort they provided him before passing. He was incredibly thankful. Dennis always kept a positive and pleasant outlook knowing he would be welcome in the house of the Lord.
Dennis is survived by his wife of 48 years, Elaine; daughter, Denise Ables of Santa Maria; two grandchildren, Mellissa Ables, of Ventura and Lindsay Ables; great grandchild, Hailie Ables Howland of Paso Robles; daughter Donna Hanna and her husband Azar; grandchildren, Christopher, Andrea, Stephen and Brent of Fremont, California. Brother, Jack Bashford and wife, Mary of El Monte; three children, Robyn, husband Frank Lemos; children Austin, Mckenzie, and Katie of El Monte; Eric Bashford, wife Laurie; daughter, Abigail of El Monte; Monica Bashford; daughter Sienna of El Monte. Brother, William Bashford, wife Susie; sons Jayson and Jerimy of Whittier. Dennis also leaves behind many friends good friends which he has been in contract with for many years. He truly is missed.
The memorial service will be held Saturday, January 24th, 2009 at 10:30am at Faith Community Church, 355 D Street, Fillmore. Mark Rathe officiating.